Japan Press Weekly

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2023 November 29 - December 5 [LABOR]

Union workers at Iwate Medical University go on strike to block cuts in winter bonuses

Braving the snowfall, a labor union at Iwate Medical University on November 29 staged a 90-minute walkout to push the university to withdraw its decision to reduce winter bonuses. The union went on a strike for the first time in 12 years.

At a rally during the walkout starting at 8:30 a.m., union chair Shibata Yuki pointed out that the university administration suddenly decided to reduce winter bonus payments although it recorded an increase in the revenue of the university’s hospital-related section thanks to the dedication of nurses and hospital workers during the COVID-19 pandemic. He expressed his determination to work hard to win a withdrawal of the university’s unjust decision.

Heads of the National Confederation of Trade Unions (Zenroren) Iwate local and the Iwate prefectural organization of the Japan Federation of Medical Workers' Unions (Iroren) delivered speeches in solidarity.

After the rally, holding a banner that read, “On strike!” union members marched in demonstration through the area near the hospital to increase public support for their demand.

A 29-year-old female nurse who has a three-year-old son said, “It is unacceptable for the university to cut winter bonus payments amid the rising cost of living. I’ll fight until the university gives up on bonus cuts.”